Singapore launches public trial of self-driving shuttle buses

Visitors to the island resort of Sentosa will now be able to experience Singapore’s first on-demand autonomous or self-driven shuttle buses. 

Autonomous minibus that will ply Sentosa roads as part of a public trial. Photo courtesy: gov.sg

They can hail an autonomous shuttle via the Ride Now Sentosa mobile app or at kiosks at selected destinations on the island, such as Siloso Point, Beach Station, Palawan Beach, Tanjong Beach and Sentosa Golf Club. 

Public can hail an autonomous shuttle at kiosks at selected destinations on Sentosa island. Image courtesy: gov.sg

This is part of a public trial which will run from August 26 to November 15, 2019. Four autonomous vehicles (AVs), comprising two minibuses and two smaller shuttles, will be deployed for the trial. 

A safety driver will be onboard every AV. He/she will be trained to take over immediate control of the vehicle should the need arise. 

All the AVs will also display electronic signages to signal that they are operating autonomously, for easy recognition by road users and pedestrians. 

The service is free of charge and will operate four hours on weekdays (excluding public holidays): from 10 am to 12 noon, and 2 pm to 4 pm.